Hyundai Elantra Launch Review
American Honda Civic Sedan spied for the first tim...
Jaguar to preview 2012 XK with Paris concept
Audi Downsizes
Aston Martin DBS 2009
The 2009 DBS promises the best performance yet in a production Aston Martin model, with a zero-to-60-mph time of only 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 191 mph. All that go is courtesy of Aston’s familiar V12 engine from the DB9 and V12 Vanquish models-here 5.9 liters and making 510 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered, with the help of a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip rear differential, to the rear wheels.
Equipped with a 6.0-liter V-12 engine, the DBS produces 510 bhp at 6500 rpm. That’s 40 more horsepower than the vaunted DB9, which is also V-12-powered. Interestingly, Aston notes the DBS actually produces less torque than the DB9; 420 lb.-ft. at 5750 rpm versus 443. Two tricks are used to increase power output: dual-path intake runners and reprofiled intake ports. When the engine screams to 5500 rpm, a secondary intake path opens up, allowing more air into the engine without sacrificing throttle crispness and torque at lower rpm.
As befits a true sports car, the power from the all-aluminum engine is sent to the rear wheels through a manual transmission, but this one is mounted out back, right in front of the rear axle. This affords two benefits: more leg space for the driver and passenger and better weight distribution. With the transmission not in the middle of the chassis, the engine can be pushed back. Aston Martin considers the DBS a “mid-front engine” design, meaning the engine lies in front of the occupants, but behind the front axle.
While the DBS was launched as a 2-seater, a new 2+2 configuration has been added to the line in response to customer demand. The two covered rear storage spaces of the standard DBS can be replaced with two small jump seats.
Interior materials are more in line with grand touring coupes than some of the performance-above-everything exotic super cars that rank in the same exclusive price range. Seats are trimmed in soft leather and Alcantara, and the interior is trimmed in carbon fiber and chrome, or available wood veneer. The DBS has seating for two, with a small storage area behind the seats, plus a relatively roomy trunk.
The DBS looks the part of a serious super car as well, with distinctive and functional hood vents, an aggressive front air splitter, plus a rear air diffuser and lots of aerodynamic work to help it stay stable at high speed.
Aston Martin DBS Luxury Sports Car
The Aston Martin DBS is a 6.0-litre V12 powered, race-bred, two-seater shaped by the aerodynamic demands of high performance, with an exquisite interior that marries beautifully hand-finished materials with the very latest in performance technology. A combination of elegant design, innovative manufacturing processes, race-derived materials and components and Aston Martin’s unrivalled hand-build expertise makes the DBS a luxury sports car without equal.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage 2009
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a supreme example of modern automotive design, a hand-crafted sports car that offers exceptional performance, outstanding agility and everyday usability. Each model shares the same beautiful form, undeniably modern yet with a direct lineage to some of the great Aston Martin models of the past, such as the DB2, DB2/4 and DB4. Externally, the acclaimed V8 Vantage design appearance is enhanced with a range of new standard and optional 19” alloy wheels.
2008 Aston Martin DB9 Overview
Aston Martin’s readying itself for its biggest auto-show debut ever in Detroit – the new Rapide, a four-door concept based on the V/H architecture that fathered the DB9, bows on Monday, January 9th. The Aston Martin DB9 offers some redesigned interior elements and an upgraded infotainment system for 2008.
The DB9 is powered by a 6.0-liter V-12 engine that generates 450 horsepower. Competitors include the Ferrari F430 and Lamborghini Gallardo. Either a conventional six-speed manual gearbox or a button-controlled six-speed automatic, called Touchtronic II, can be installed. The DB9 was the first car to be hand-built at a new state-of-the-art facility in Gaydon, England. In addition to the coupe, a Volante convertible is also offered.
The DB9 offers 2+2 seating that features Bridge of Weir leather. Walnut, mahogany or bamboo wood trim is available. To start the engine, the driver must press a clear glass button. The tachometer dial runs counterclockwise and has no redline. Instead, a red warning symbol appears at various engine speeds, depending on ambient temperature and engine mileage.
There are no visible gutters on the roof panel, and no visible drain channels at the front or rear windscreens. Nor are there any plastic ‘dressing’ plates.
The DB9 is the first car to be produced at Aston’s modern facility in Gaydon, Warwickshire. It is also the first car to use the company’s VH [Vertical Horizontal] architecture.
